How Can Deforestation Increase Global Warming

Question

How can deforestation increase global warming?
A) It can decrease the total amount of photosynthesis as C₃ plants are harvested.
B) It can increase the number of C₄ plants, thereby increasing photorespiration.
C) It can cause runoff to become more acidic, thereby blocking the uptake of carbon dioxide.
D) It can increase the uptake of carbon dioxide by encouraging the growth of faster growing plants.

Accepted Answer

Deforestation can decrease the total amount of photosynthesis as C₃ plants are harvested. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and store it as biomass through photosynthesis. When trees are cut down, this process stops, leading to an increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Additionally, deforestation can also lead to an increase in forest fires, which release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.